Issue 93 - February 14, 2007

From Your Director ...

Last week I wrote about attending the Emerging Business Luncheon at Union University when downtown's own Rachel Dickson, owner of The Dickson Gallery of Fine Art was one of the recipients of that prestigious award.

On Thursday evening I attended the Pinnacle Awards Gala at the Fairgrounds Park, and once again I was very cavalier as I watched three downtown business/community leaders walk away with awards in recognition of their noteworthy business practices. Winners were Askew Hargraves Harcourt and Associates, Camp's Market and Rainey Kizer Revier and Bell PLC.

I think downtown stole the show this year. Thank you downtown business for representing us well and proving that you can run a very successful business in downtown Jackson. We are really proud of all four recipients. The additional three downtown nominees are also to be commended.

Our downtown is thriving, and has such a great cross section of commercial, retail, professional and service industries. They are the risk takers, and show the entrepreneurial spirit. Be sure to compliment all the winners when you see them on their achievement and status in the business community.

You'll be glad you did!!!

Library to Feature Nine-Month Continuing Gardener Series

On Tuesday, February 20th, the Jackson-Madison County Library, UT Extension and the Madison County Master Gardeners will launch a nine month gardening seminar series called "Tuesdays with a Gardener." The programs will be held on the third Tuesday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Library Program Center. You are invited to bring a brown bag lunch and the Master Gardeners and the Library will provide a beverage.

The first presentation in the series will be made by UT Extension Agent Bill Wyatt who will speak on "Pruning Landscape Trees, Shrubs and Groundcovers." This program is free and is open to the public. No registration is required. For more information you can call 425.8600.

Downtown Tavern to Hold Special Event Saturday

Who says there isn't nightlife in Downtown Jackson?

On Saturday evening, February 17th, the Downtown Tavern, 208 North Liberty Street will be holding a "Mardi Gras Costume Party."

So drag out the beads and bright colored clothing and join the activities planned for the evening. It'll be a night to let your hair down. A Mardi Gras King and Queen will also be chosen. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., the band, Josh Smith, Dave Thomas and featuring Jason Childers will start playing at 9:00 p.m. Oysters on the half shell will be available along with other specials. Sounds like a lot of fun. For more information you can call 424.1995.

Mardi Gras Parade to be Held on February 20th

The Fat Friday Mardi Gras Parade will take place at noon on Tuesday, February 20th, and is sponsored by News/Talk 101.5 FM. The parade is open to anyone that wants to enter, and originality is encouraged. There is no entry fee.

The staging area is on Cumberland and College Street, around the Carnegie area. Hundreds have come downtown each year to share in the parade festivities since it's inception in 1999. Mardi Gras in Jackson, Tennessee will be well celebrated so plan on attending. For more information you can call 423.8316.

The Chamber to Host Business After Hours

The Jackson Boat, Sport & RV Show at the Carl Perkins Civic Center, 400 South Highland Avenue, is where you'll want to be on Thursday, February 15th especially from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The Chamber, in conjunction with the show will be hosting their monthly Business After Hours.

Network with colleagues and enjoy great food and drink! FREE admission.
For more information call the Chamber at 423.2200.

CapitalTALK to be Hosted by the Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber of Commerce will be hosting our own state legislators for CapitalTALK on Friday, February 16th, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at the Jackson Chamber of Commerce Offices, 197 Auditorium Street.

Senator Lowe Finney, Representatives Johnny Shaw and Jimmy Eldridge will be sharing timely and interesting information.

The format will allow each representative a time for opening remarks before the question and answer session begins.

The town hall type meeting is free and open to the public. For more information you can call 423.2200.

Two Restaurants to have Special Valentine Dinners

The Candela Restaurant, 575 South Royal Street, will be having a wonderful four course Valentines dinner on the 14th, starting at 5:00 and serving until 9:00 p.m. A very special dinner is being planned featuring an appetizer, salad, entree and unique dessert created by the pastry chef. For more information you can call 554.3663.

Oakslea Place, 1210 North Highland Avenue will be serving a special Valentines Dinner on the 14th, from 5:00 to 9:30 p.m. with a choice of four entrees, featuring Lamb, Mahi Mahi, Chicken Masala or Pasta. Included is a Valentines dessert and a box of chocolates to take home. For more information you can call 554.1760.